9Days Experience Thailand

Price from $4181 per person on twin sharing basis

Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Phitsanulok – Sukhothai – Lampang – Phayao – Golden Triangle - Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai

 

Discover the Heart of Thailand: Bangkok to Chiang Mai Adventure

Embark on a captivating journey through Thailand’s cultural core and northern highlands. Begin in vibrant Bangkok, where glittering temples and bustling markets set the tone. Step back in time in Ayutthaya and Phitsanulok, home to ancient ruins and revered Buddha images, before exploring the UNESCO-listed historical park of Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital. Continue through the scenic towns of Lampang and Phayao, rich with Lanna heritage and serene lakeside views. Witness the meeting point of three nations at the Golden Triangle, then soak in the artistic flair of Chiang Rai and the charm of mountainous Chiang Mai. From royal relics to rural beauty, this overland tour is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural splendour.

Itinerary

Day 1

Bangkok

Arrive in Bangkok, you will be met and transferred to your Hotel.

Day 2

Bangkok (B)

Today's half day tour includes three of the most important Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Wat Trimit also known as the temple of the Golden Buddha houses a 3 meter tall statue made from solid gold and weighing 5.5 tons. You will then pass through Chinatown on your way to Wat Pho, the temple of the reclining Buddha and home to the Chedis of the Kings. At 46 meters in length and 15 meters high the Buddha is the largest in Bangkok and illustrates the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The Grand Palace is one of the most beautiful samples of an ancient Siamese court. It used to be the residence of the Kings of Bangkok. Here you will see palaces which were used for different occasions: the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and Wat Phra Keo, the beautiful Emerald Buddha Temple.

Day 3

Bangkok (B)

Experience the most authentic of the floating markets at Damnoen Saduak, to the south west of the city and enjoy an afternoon of insight into Thai culture at the Rose Garden. You’ll have an exciting long tail boat ride along the nearby canals to the site of the market, where you will find the locals selling everything possibly imaginable from their boats. Plenty of shopping bargains to be found. Then it’s onto the Rose Garden, a beautiful resort area, where lunch is taken. After lunch you will have time to wander around the gardens & the recreated Thai village with lots of interesting & varied handicrafts on display.

Day 4

Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Phitsanulok (L)

Pick up from your hotel. You will drive to Bang Pa to visit Summer Palace. Continue to Ayutthaya and visit ancient temples of Wat Yai Chaimongkhon, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Phanan Choeng. Later proceed to Phitsanulok and take a short orientation tour.

Day 5

Phitsanulok – Sukhothai – Lampang (B/L)

Today you will visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat and later leave for Sukhothai. Visit the ruined temples and palaces as well as the Buddha statues. Continue your drive to Lampang for overnight.

Day 6

Lampang – Phayao – Golden Triangle – Chiang Rai (B/L)

Explore the wonderful Wat Phra in the morning and then a short drive from Lampang to visit a pineapple plantation before arriving at Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. Continue towards the town of Mae Sai. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

Day 7

Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai (B/L)

Visit Chiang Rai market and Wat Phra Kaew Temple. Take a river cruise on traditional long trail boat to Pha Tai to visit a hill tribe village. Continue by road to Chiang Mai and visit Sankampang, famous for Thai Lanna handicraft centre. Stop at Color Factor, showcasing some full-size Elephant Parade statues from cities around the world.

Day 8

Chiang Mai (B/L)

The morning is at leisure. In the afternoon visit Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, one of the most revered temples, located on mountain top offering stunning panoramic views of the city.

Day 9

Chiang Mai (B)

Transfer to airport for your flight to Bangkok or extend your stay in Thailand by choosing a beach extension

Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customized

Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotels, meals as shown , transfers & local tours using private car, local guides, entrance fees 

Prices quoted are valid till 31 October 2025. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.